The technical and professional communicator is, first and foremost, an accomplished writer who produces clear, precise, timely, and effective prose. However, technical communicators are also adept at designing information layouts, integrating images with text, working in teams, translating technical concepts for diverse audiences, and engaging with users to ensure the usability of documents. Individuals interested in technical and professional communication enjoy the process of continually learning and sharing information with others.

To complete the Technical and Professional Communication Certificate, students must complete 7 courses (28 units). We further recommend that students continue to take advanced science, math, engineering, and business coursework in their areas of interest.

Prerequisites: Completion of GE Area A3

Core Courses (16 units):

English 221—Introduction to Technical and Professional Communication

English 317—Technical Editing

English 319—Information Design and Production

English 421—Advanced Topics in Technical and Professional Communication

Practicum (4 units):

Internship, Independent Study, or Senior Project related to technical or professional communication (requires approval of the program director)

Electives (8 units; select 2 courses):

Elective courses will provide additional instruction in technical and professional communication and/or provide additional information about the interdisciplinary contexts that students will encounter as technical and professional communicators.

English 310—Corporate Communication

English 380—Literary Themes (dependent upon theme; must be approved by the program director)

English 411—New Media Arts 1

English 412—New Media Arts 2

English 467—Topics in Rhetoric and Writing (dependent upon topic; must be approved by the program director)